2018 Course Information: Introduction to Glass Blowing

Introduction to Glass Blowing

This two day course will introduce students to melting and blowing borosilicate (pyrex) glass with a bench burner. Areas of focus will include both solid and hollow forms: marbles, pendants, and ornaments. Students will learn how to work with precious metals (silver fuming) as well as colored borosilicate glass. Lectures will cover health and safety in the studio, techniques for pattern application, kiln annealing, and theories for assembly. Class will be limited to eight students to allow for individual attention from instructor and teacher’s assistant. This class is open to students of any skill level.

John Nease began lampworking in Fayetteville, Arkansas in late 1997. He moved to Fort Collins where he furthered his study of the medium and started Bonafide Glass. After several years in Colorado, he relocated his studio to southern Oregon where he honed his skills before bringing them home to Northwest Arkansas where he now resides with his wife Jessica. His love for working with borosilicate glass has taken him to studios from coast to coast. He has studied under notable glass artists such as Robert Mickelsen (Ram), Clinton Roman, Jason Lee, Banjo, and Joe Peters. He currently works with his apprentice producing functional borosilicate glass art that is sold across the country. He enjoys sharing his experience with fellow glass artists and can often be found collaborating on projects with other local glass blowers. His portfolio can be found on Instagram @bonafideglass .